Chimney Flue Liners
A chimney liner is a ceramic, clay or metal channel that is installed in a chimney to direct the combustion materials to the outside. The installation of chimney flue liners is recommended by building and fire codes from most states. By installing them, you will protect your chimney walls from corrosion.
Chimney flue liners protect the house from heat transfers. If the chimney is not lined, it will allow heat to move through the chimney rapidly and this may cause the woodwork to cause fire. If the fire spreads to the rest of the house, you will lose a lot of property, some of which cannot be replaced. This is the reason why they are recommended by the fire codes. By installing one, you will improve the safety of your home.
Chimney liners increase the life of the chimney. If the gases are allowed to penetrate the brick and mortar, then the chimney will wear out faster. This is because the flue gases are acidic in nature and thus corrode the mortar joints. When the joints become eroded, the heat transfer becomes more rapid. The dangerous gases can leak to your living room threatening the life of the residents.
The common types of chimney flue liners include:
Clay: These are cost effective and mainly used in open fireplace chimneys
Metal: Metal liners are made from stainless steel and aluminum
Cast in place: These are cement like and are installed inside the chimney providing a seamless pass way for flue gases.